OCU Faculty Provide Monthly Academic Presentations

Ohio Christian University faculty have begun monthly presentations to enhance the academic quality and engagement of faculty, students, and community members. These events are also being made available live through video conferencing so that faculty and students in online programs are able to participate.

On December 5th, Prof. Thad Hicks will present on the topic of Managing Compassion Fatigue. Prof. Hicks serves as Assistant Professor of Disaster Management and is working on a Ph.D. in Intercultural Studies. Compassion Fatigue, or secondary traumatic stress disorder, is a condition characterized by a gradual lessening of compassion over time. It is common among individuals that work directly with victims of trauma. Everyone is invited to this event on Wednesday, December 5th at 4 p.m. in the Science and Logistics Center, Rooms 102/104 at 1476 Lancaster Pike, Circleville.

In October, Dr. Rick Christman presented the results of his research study on the relationship of spiritual well-being and gender with college student leadership practices. Dr. Christman serves as Vice President for Student Development and Athletics and holds an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership.

In November, Prof. Matt Decker presented on a research study on depression screening and treatment for Black Americans with multiple sclerosis. Prof. Decker serves as Assistant Professor of Psychology and is a Candidate for a Ph.D.in Clinical Psychology.

Student Peggy Goodrich drove from Zanesville to attend the November presentation, and she hopes to return for the December 5th event. She shared her thoughts on the experiences, “The presentations allow students and faculty to expand their knowledge base and satisfy their curiosity in areas they may not have otherwise been exposed. These give me the opportunity to meet with facility and other students, thus allowing me to build on my college experience and academic relationships with others at OCU.”

Ohio Christian University is one of the fastest growing universities in Ohio. Over the past six years enrollment has grown from 400 to 3,400. With a heritage dating back to 1948, Ohio Christian University offers a complete education that develops students intellectually, professionally and spiritually. OCU offers degree programs designed to equip students to become leaders in their careers, communities, families and in the world. Students enrolled in OCU’s traditional undergraduate program attend classes at its main campus in Circleville, Ohio. OCU’s College of Adult and Graduate Studies offers several campus locations in central Ohio and near Atlanta, Georgia, as well as fully online degree programs.